On December 22, 2022, the Punjab and Haryana High Court, while dismissing a revision petition observed that the word “Widow” under section 19 of the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956, included the minor grandchildren who were staying with their mother, and hence they were entitled to be maintained under the abovesaid section.
Brief Facts:
The petitioner filed a review petition challenging the correctness of an order passed by the Family Court. Through this order, the court directed the petitioner to pay the maintenance pendente lite @₹2,000/- each to his grandchildren. Aggrieved by the same, the present petition was filed.
Contentions of the Petitioner:
It was submitted that section 19 of the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956, entitled only the widow's daughter-in-law to file an application for maintenance, however, there was no such provision for directing the petitioner to pay the maintenance to the grandchildren as well.
Observations of the Court:
The Hon’ble court observed that the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956 was beneficial legislation enacted to take care of the destitute daughter-in-law who, on account of unfortunate circumstances, becomes a widow.
The court further observed that the word “Widow” included the minor grandchildren who were staying with their mother.
The Decision of the Court:
The present revision petition was dismissed and the order passed by the Family Court was upheld.
Case Title: Hari Ram Hans Vs. Smt. Deepali and Others
Coram: Hon'ble Mr. Justice Anil Kshetarpal
Case No.- Civil Revision No. 6031 of 2022 (O&M)
Advocate for Petitioner: Mr. Abhimanyu Singh
Read Order @LatestLaws.com
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